A New Era of Care: Saplings Joins FSJACL to Transform Mental Health & Inclusion

In this groundbreaking episode of the Shining Brighter Podcast, hosts Jared Braun and CEO Jordan Soggie welcome Saplings founders Laura Honey and Julia Hintermeister for a powerful conversation about youth mental health, community care, and one of the biggest announcements in our history: Saplings is officially joining the Fort St. John Association for Community Living.What began in 2020 as an emergency response to a youth mental health crisis—running DBT groups out of a wheelchair storage room—has now grown into one of the region’s most essential supports for young people facing emotional dysregulation, addictions, early psychosis, and more.Together, Saplings and FSJACL share how this merger will expand services, unlock new funding opportunities, improve transitions from youth to adult services, and build a stronger, more integrated system for individuals with developmental disabilities, complex needs, and mental health challenges.This episode is a deep look at teamwork, innovation, and what can happen when a community refuses to let young people fall through the cracks.Episode HighlightsWhy Saplings was created at the height of the youth mental health crisisDBT programs, school-based interventions, and zero waitlistsThe gaps in emergency mental health care in northern BCThe power of community partnerships between Saplings and FSJACLExclusive announcement: Saplings is becoming part of the AssociationWhat this merger means for families, youth, and adults with complex needsPlans for a growing mental health wing, clinical services, and inclusive housingHow strong team culture fuels resilience and innovationThe shared mission of both organizations: inclusion, empowerment, and communityKey Message“This is not about reducing or changing services—it's about growing, strengthening, and building something our community has needed for a long time.”Tune in to hear how Saplings and FSJACL are shaping the future of mental health and community living in Fort St. John.Subscribe to the Shining Brighter Podcast for more stories of innovation, resilience, and hope.